The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has launched a new website (www.fda.gov/safesharpsdisposal) for patients and caregivers on the safe disposal of needles and other so-called “sharps” that are used at home, at work and while traveling.

The website will help people understand the public health risks created by improperly disposing of used sharps and how users should safely dispose of them.

Sharps is a term for medical devices with sharp points or edges that can puncture or cut the skin. Such medical devices include hypodermic needles and syringes used to administer medication; lancets or fingerstick devices to collect blood for testing; needle and tubing systems for infusing intravenous and subcutaneous medicines; and connection needles used for home hemodialysis.

For more detailed information click on the links below:

·         FDA Press Release:
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm278851.htm

·         FDA Consumer Update:
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm278763.htm

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.